Why the Christmas season makes your autistic traits impossible to ignore.
Christmas is many things, cozy, chaotic, joyful, overwhelming, and for a lot of people, it’s also the one time of year when their neurodivergent traits become impossible to ignore. The routines disappear, the sensory load skyrockets, and suddenly you’re thinking… “Is this just me, or is this something more?”
If you’ve found yourself reflecting on how you’re coping (or aren’t coping) over the festive period, here are 10 signs of possible neurodivergence that tend to show up most clearly at Christmas.
1. You feel completely drained after social gatherings
Even when you love the people you’re with, the constant conversation, noise, and expectations leave you wiped out for days.
2. You rely heavily on routine — and Christmas destroys it
The late nights, the visitors, the travel, the unpredictable meals…it all feels like chaos rather than fun.
3. You struggle with sensory overload
With fairy lights, loud music, crowded shops, strong smells, scratchy jumpers, Christmas is basically a sensory obstacle course.
4. You hyperfocus on getting everything “right”
The perfect gifts, the perfect food, the perfect plan. Christmas isn’t just one day, it’s a whole project and you’re the manager.
5. You need more alone time than usual
You sneak off for quiet moments, long showers, or “just popping upstairs for a minute” because your brain needs a reset.
6. You find small talk exhausting
The endless “How’s work?” and “Any plans for New Year?” conversations feel like a performance you can’t quite switch off.
7. You notice your masking goes into overdrive
You’re smiling, nodding, laughing at the right moments, but it’s scripted, not natural.
8. You get overwhelmed by last‑minute changes
Someone cancels, someone arrives early, the plan shifts, and your whole body reacts like it’s a crisis.
9. You feel misunderstood or “out of sync” with others
Everyone else seems to be having fun effortlessly, while you’re working hard just to stay regulated.
10. You spend the quiet days after Christmas reflecting… a lot
You replay moments, analyse interactions, and wonder why things felt harder for you than for others.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone
Christmas has a way of magnifying neurodivergent traits, not because anything is wrong with you, but because the season is set up for sensory overwhelm, social pressure, and routine disruption.
For many adults (and parents noticing things in their children), this time of year becomes the catalyst for seeking clarity.
If 2026 is the year you want answers, understanding, and a sense of “Oh… that explains everything,” Leap is here to support you.
Yes, It Counts: What makes Private Autism Diagnoses Recognised by Health and Education
When you’re considering an autism assessment, one of the biggest questions is: “Will a private diagnosis be recognised?” The short answer is yes. In the UK, both health and education services accept private diagnostic reports, provided they meet professional standards.
Health Services: Recognition and Continuity
Same standards as the NHS: Private assessments must follow NICE guidelines, using recognised tools like ADOS‑2 and ADI‑R.
Qualified clinicians: Reports from registered psychiatrists, psychologists, or specialist nurses carry the same weight as NHS reports.
No duplication needed: NHS services may review the report, but they cannot dismiss it simply because it was obtained privately.
Timely access: With NHS waiting lists often stretching into years, private diagnosis offers a faster route to clarity and support.
Education: Acceptance in Schools and Local Authorities
SEND Code of Practice (2015): Legally, schools and local authorities must consider all professional evidence, including private reports.
EHCP applications: A private diagnosis can be used as evidence when applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan.
Practical classroom support: Teachers and SENCOs use diagnostic reports to guide strategies, adjustments, and access to specialist services.
Consistency across systems: Autism is lifelong — once diagnosed, the label and support requirements remain valid, regardless of whether the assessment was NHS or private.
Why Private Diagnosis Is Accepted
Equity of access: Families and adults who choose private routes are not penalised.
Timeliness: Private diagnosis helps individuals access support faster, reducing stress and unmet needs.
Credibility: The emphasis is on quality — a thorough, guideline‑compliant assessment is accepted whether NHS or private.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re a parent seeking answers for your child or an adult exploring your own neurodivergence, a private diagnosis with Leap is recognised by both health and education services. What matters is that the assessment is carried out by qualified professionals, follows NICE guidelines, and provides clear evidence to support your needs. Education, Healthcare, and local authorities are required to consider all professional evidence when assessing an individual’s needs, including reports from private clinicians. What matters is the quality and credibility of the assessment, not who funded it. Leap’s assessments follow NICE guidelines and are carried out by qualified and experienced clinicians, meaning they meet the standards expected by both health and education services.
Further reading
For more information about this subject please click through the below links:
Worried about changes to 'Right to Choose'?
In Lancashire, Sefton, and Merseyside, NHS England has paused new referrals under the Right to Choose pathway for ADHD and autism assessments. This means patients cannot currently access faster, NHS‑funded assessments through private providers. The pause is linked to shared care and funding disputes, and there is no confirmed date for when it will un-pause.
Right to Choose is a legal entitlement under the NHS Choice Framework. It allows patients to select their provider for certain services, including ADHD and autism assessments, if that provider has an NHS contract. For many, this has been a lifeline, offering quicker access compared to multi‑year NHS waitlists.
The Current Pause in Lancashire, Sefton, and Merseyside
Since autumn 2025, Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) across Lancashire, Sefton, and Merseyside have paused new Right to Choose referrals for ADHD and autism. While the legal right remains, local NHS bodies are refusing to process referrals or shared care agreements.
This pause means:
New referrals are blocked even if patients meet eligibility criteria.
Shared care arrangements (e.g. for medication management between private and NHS providers) are being rejected.
Thousands of patients are left in limbo, unable to progress with assessments.
Why Has This Happened?
The pause is driven by:
Funding disputes between NHS England and local ICBs.
Shared care breakdowns, where GPs and trusts are reluctant to take responsibility for prescribing or follow‑up after private assessments.
Capacity pressures, with NHS services overwhelmed by demand — over 227,000 people are currently waiting for autism assessments nationally.
When Will It Un-pause?
At present, no clear national date has been set for the unpause. NHS England has removed clauses that threatened the legal basis of Right to Choose, but local ICBs continue to block referrals. Advocacy groups like ADHD UK and ADHDaptive are pressing for clarity, but patients in Lancashire, Sefton, and Merseyside should expect ongoing delays.
Leap: An Alternative If You Don’t Want to Wait
At Leap, we know how painful waiting can be. That’s why we continue to offer:
Private, nurse‑led autism assessments with no waiting list.
Post assessment reports that support workplace adjustments, and personalised care.
Flexible payment options to make assessments more accessible.
A validating, neurodivergent‑affirming experience from start to finish.
If Right to Choose is paused in your area, Leap can help you move forward without delay. Contact us today to discuss your options.
Ear defenders in the classroom as a tool, not a barrier
Recently, some public comments suggested that children wearing ear defenders in classrooms is “insane.” In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. For many autistic and neurodivergent children, ear defenders are not a gimmick, they are a lifeline.
Understanding Sensory Differences
Classrooms are busy, noisy places. Chairs scrape, pens click, voices overlap, bells ring. For children with heightened sensory sensitivity, this constant background noise can feel overwhelming, even painful. Ear defenders don’t block out learning — they reduce the sensory overload so children can focus on learning.
Ear Defenders as a Tool, Not a Barrier
Improved concentration: By reducing distracting noise, children can pay attention to the teacher and their work.
Reduced anxiety: Noise sensitivity often triggers stress. Ear defenders help children stay calm and engaged.
Inclusive learning: Instead of being excluded or labelled disruptive, children can remain in the classroom environment with their peers.
Far from being “insane,” this is a practical, evidence‑based adjustment that supports inclusion.
Teachers Know What Works
Educators across the UK already use simple sensory supports, from quiet corners to fidget tools, to help children thrive. Ear defenders are just one of many strategies that make classrooms more accessible. Teachers see the difference: calmer pupils, better focus, and fewer meltdowns.
A Gendered Lens: Girls and Sensory Needs
Autistic girls are often underdiagnosed and overlooked. Many mask their struggles, appearing “fine” while quietly battling sensory overload. For them, ear defenders can be a subtle, non‑disruptive way to cope. Supporting these needs openly helps dismantle stigma and ensures girls aren’t left behind.
Building a Culture of Understanding
Calling these supports “insane” dismisses the lived reality of thousands of children and families. Instead, we should celebrate schools that embrace inclusive practices. Ear defenders are not about weakness, they are about empowerment, giving children the tools they need to learn alongside their peers.
In Summary
Ear defenders in classrooms are not extreme. They are a simple, compassionate adjustment that helps children manage sensory differences, reduce anxiety, and stay engaged in learning. When we listen to autistic voices and respect their needs, we build classrooms where every child can thrive.
So if ear defenders in class are ‘insane,’ then I suppose umbrellas in the rain are too, but some of us prefer staying dry.
Autism and ADHD, understanding the crossroads of Neurodivergence
ADHD and autism share many overlapping traits, but they are distinct conditions with different core features. ADHD is primarily about attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, while autism centres on social communication, sensory processing, and repetitive behaviours. Understanding both the similarities and differences helps families, professionals, and individuals navigate support more effectively.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder) are two of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions. They often co-occur, and many people find themselves wondering whether traits belong to one, the other, or both. Here’s a clear look at where they overlap — and where they differ.
Similarities Between ADHD and Autism
Executive functioning challenges: Both ADHD and autism can involve difficulties with planning, organisation, and task initiation. Forgetting appointments, struggling with daily routines, or feeling overwhelmed by admin tasks are common in both.
Social difficulties: People with ADHD may interrupt or struggle to follow social cues due to impulsivity, while autistic people may find social rules confusing or exhausting. In both cases, relationships can feel challenging.
Sensory sensitivities: Noise, textures, or crowded environments can be overwhelming for both autistic and ADHD individuals, though the triggers and intensity may differ.
Emotional regulation: Anxiety, frustration, or mood swings are often reported in both conditions, sometimes leading to shutdowns, meltdowns, or impulsive reactions.
Hyperfocus and special interests: Both groups can become deeply absorbed in activities they enjoy, sometimes losing track of time or neglecting other tasks.
Differences Between ADHD and Autism
Core traits: ADHD is defined by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Autism is defined by differences in social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviours.
Social intent vs. social skill: People with ADHD often want to socialise but may struggle with impulsivity or distraction. Autistic people may prefer deeper, structured connections and find small talk confusing or draining.
Communication style: ADHD may involve blurting things out or difficulty listening. Autism often involves differences in eye contact, tone, or understanding nonverbal cues.
Flexibility: ADHD brains often seek novelty and stimulation, while autistic brains often prefer predictability and routine.
Diagnosis profile: ADHD is usually identified through patterns of attention and behaviour across settings. Autism is diagnosed through developmental history, social communication differences, and sensory/behavioural traits.
When ADHD and Autism Co-Occur
It’s possible to have both conditions, sometimes called “AuDHD.” Around 14% of children with ADHD are also autistic. When they overlap, challenges with executive functioning, social interaction, and sensory regulation can feel more complex, but strengths like creativity, resilience, and unique problem-solving approaches also shine through.
Why This Matters
Recognising both the similarities and differences helps avoid misdiagnosis and ensures support is tailored. ADHD strategies often focus on managing attention and impulsivity, while autism support emphasises communication, sensory regulation, and routine. For those with both, a blended approach is most effective.
In summary: ADHD and autism share common ground in executive functioning, social challenges, and sensory sensitivities, but they differ in their core traits and how they shape daily life. Understanding these nuances helps individuals feel seen, supported, and celebrated for their strengths.
Ready to take the next step? Book a call today.
You’ve just received a diagnosis of autism, what happens now?
What Happens After an Autism Diagnosis? A Practical Guide for Adults
Receiving an autism diagnosis in adulthood can be a turning point, but what comes next isn’t always clear. Many people leave their assessment with more questions than answers. At Leap, we believe post-diagnostic support should be practical, validating, and tailored to real life. Here’s a straightforward guide to what you can expect, what to prioritise, and how to move forward with confidence.
1. Understand What the Diagnosis Means — Clinically and Personally
Your diagnostic outcome is based on criteria outlined in the DSM-5, which includes persistent differences in social communication and interaction, alongside restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or sensory experiences. But the clinical label is just one part of the picture.
What to do next:
Read your report, take your time, they are often very long!
Ask for clarification on any terms you don’t understand. You are always welcome to arrange a post diagnosis chat to talk through your report or discuss next steps.
Make a list of traits or patterns that feel most relevant to your daily life
2. Identify your Support Needs
Some people feel relief after diagnosis, others feel overwhelmed. Both viewpoints are valid. The key is to identify what you need right now, whether it’s emotional support, workplace adjustments, or practical tools.
Consider:
Do you need help explaining your diagnosis to family or colleagues?
Are sensory challenges affecting your daily routines?
Would a structured planner, visual schedule, or quiet space (for example at work) help?
3. Explore Adjustments for the Workplace or Education
Under the Equality Act 2010, autistic people are entitled to reasonable adjustments at work and in education. These can include flexible hours, noise-reducing equipment, written instructions, or a preferred form of contact (e.g. email over phone calls).
Steps to take:
Review your job description and identify where challenges arise
Speak to HR or your line manager about adjustments
Consider Access to Work, a government scheme that funds support for disabled employees (National Autistic Society, 2025).
4. Build a Toolkit That Works for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to post-diagnostic support. Some people benefit from coaching, peer groups, or occupational therapy. Others prefer self-guided resources.
Start with:
A daily planner or journal. Keeping a note of your feelings can be useful for spotting patterns or areas of challenge.
Sensory tools (noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, fidget items)
Online communities or local groups for autistic people
5. Know Your Rights, and Your Options
An autism diagnosis can open doors to support, but it also requires self-advocacy. You may be eligible for benefits, housing support, or further assessments (e.g. ADHD, sensory processing).
Further support:
Once diagnosed, Leap will contact your GP to inform them of your diagnosis (with your consent)
Explore Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Universal Credit, if eligible.
Ask about sensory assessments or mental health support if needed
6. Plan for the Long Term
Autism is lifelong, but support needs can change. What helps now may evolve over time. The goal isn’t to “fix” anything, you don’t need fixing, it’s to build systems that work for you.
Think about:
What routines help you feel regulated and safe?
What relationships feel supportive and sustainable?
What boundaries do you need to protect your energy?
Final Thoughts
A diagnosis is just the beginning of understanding yourself more clearly. At Leap, we’re committed to making that journey practical and empowering. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into self-discovery, you deserve to live a life that honours your strengths and supports your areas of challenge.
Ready to talk about your experiences? Book a FREE consultation today
You don’t have to be sure to start
For anyone quietly wondering if autism might explain the things they’ve never said out loud.
One of the most common things we hear from people considering an autism assessment is, “I’m not sure I’m autistic enough.” Or, “I relate to some things, but not everything.” Or even, “I feel like I’m making it up.”
This hesitation is normal. It’s not a sign that you’re wrong, it’s often a sign that you’ve spent years adapting, masking, and pushing through. You’ve learned to cope in ways that make your struggles less visible to others. Maybe you’ve internalised the idea that if you’re functioning, you must be fine. And maybe, you feel, if you’ve made it this far, you don’t need help. That if you’re not melting down in public or avoiding eye contact 100% of the time, you must not be autistic.
But autism doesn’t always look like the stereotypes. It doesn’t always come with a dramatic light bulb moment. Sometimes it’s a slow, quiet wondering. A pattern you can’t quite name. A sense that something has always felt slightly off-centre but you’ve just learned to live with it.
You don’t need certainty to begin.
You don’t need a checklist when you come to your assessment, and you don’t need to match every trait. You don’t need to have it all figured out before you reach out. That’s what we are here for.
An autism assessment isn’t about proving anything. It’s about exploring. It’s a space to talk openly about your experiences, without judgement and without pressure. It’s a chance to understand how your brain works, how you’ve coped, and what might help you feel more like yourself.
You’re not wasting anyone’s time.
This fear comes up a lot, especially for women and non binary adults who’ve been socialised to minimise their needs. You might worry that you’re taking a resource away from someone who “needs it more.”. You might think, “I’ve managed this long, maybe I should just keep going.”
But you deserve clarity, you deserve support. You deserve to do so much more than just ‘manage’. You deserve to understand yourself. And if autism is part of your story, you deserve to know, not so you can change who you are, but so you can stop performing and start resting.
You’re allowed to be unsure.
Some people come to us with a strong sense that they’re autistic. Others come with a question they’ve carried for years. Both are valid. Both deserve to be heard.
You don’t have to be sure. You just have to be curious. And if you’re ready to explore that curiosity, we’re here to listen.
Book a free consultation to see how Leap can help you.
Aren’t we all ‘a bit on the spectrum’ though?
You’ve probably heard it. Maybe from a colleague, a friend, even a GP:
“We’re all a bit autistic, aren’t we?” ⠀ It’s often said with kindness , in an attempt to relate, to soften difference. But the truth is, We’re not all ‘a bit on the spectrum’. And saying we are can erase the very real experiences of autistic people.
🧠 What is the autistic spectrum?
The autism spectrum isn’t a straight line from “not autistic” to “very autistic.” It’s a complex, multidimensional profile, like a soundboard with dozens of sliders:
Sensory sensitivity
Social communication
Executive function
Emotional regulation
Processing speed
Special interests
Masking and burnout
Each autistic person has a unique combination of traits — some high, some low, some variable. It’s not about how ‘much’ autism someone has. It’s about how it shows up, and how it impacts their life. So while lots of people may have some traits of autism (e.g., they like their routines, or they aren’t very sociable) it often comes down to personality, and doesn’t equal a diagnosis of autism.
Why “We’re All a Bit Autistic” Is Harmful
This phrase:
Minimises the lived reality of autistic people
Dismisses the need for support, diagnosis, and accommodations
Confuses quirks with neurodivergence
Invalidates those who’ve spent years masking, struggling, and being misdiagnosed
As one autistic advocate puts it:
“You can’t be a little bit autistic, just like you can’t be a little bit diabetic.”
Why Autism Feels ‘Everywhere’ Now
We’ve heard it said, ‘there wasn’t all this autism 20 years ago’ or ‘nobody had autism in my class in the 1990’s’. It’s not that autism is suddenly more common. It’s that we’re finally seeing it, especially in groups long overlooked:
Women and girls, who often mask and present differently
People of colour, who face diagnostic bias
Adults, who were missed as children
Those with co-occurring conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or trauma (the trauma and autism crossover is a post for another day!)
We’re also:
Better at recognising subtle traits
More open about neurodiversity
Creating safer spaces for people to seek answers
In an age of instant information and communication. Information about what autism actually is, and the ability to communicate with others having similar experiences to ourselves (just look for forums, subreddits, Facebook pages about the autistic experience, suddenly it’s not just a ‘you’ thing).
What to Say Instead
If you’re trying to relate to someone who has expressed that they may be autistic, or that they have been diagnosed, try:
“I see you.”
“I didn’t know that about you, thanks for sharing”
“What helps you feel safe?”
These phrases build connection without erasing difference. They honour the spectrum as something real, complex, and deeply personal.
Final Thought
Autism isn’t a trend, or a fad, or the next big thing. It’s a neurotype, a way of being. Imagine it like an operating system for your phone, some people are Android and some are Apple, the odd one might be Windows. They do the same job, just with different functionalities.
For those who live it, being “a bit on the spectrum” isn’t a quirky footnote. It’s a full story, often one that has been tricky to write. One that deserves to be heard, understood, and respected.
Got questions or comments? Get in touch via our contact page and we’ll be in touch soon.
‘Unmasked’, understanding the cost of camouflage
Unmasked: Understanding Autism and the Cost of Camouflage
Many autistic people spend years adapting to the world around them in ways that go unnoticed, even by themselves. This process is known as masking, and it’s far more common than most realise.
According to the National Autistic Society, masking is “a strategy used by some autistic people, consciously or unconsciously, to appear non-autistic in order to blend in and be more accepted in society.” It can happen at work, at school, in social settings, or even at home — and while it may help people get by, it often comes at a high emotional cost.
“Masking is to re-write every fibre of your being to suit the situation you are in and what is perceived to be ‘normal’ behaviour and reactions.” — Rosie Weldon, autistic author and advocate
What Does Masking Look Like?
Masking isn’t always obvious. It can be subtle, habitual, and deeply ingrained. Here are some real-world examples:
At Work
Smiling and nodding during meetings, even when overwhelmed
Avoiding asking questions for fear of seeming “difficult”
Eating lunch alone but saying it’s to “make a call”
Suppressing sensory discomfort from bright lights or noise
Using rehearsed phrases to sound socially fluent
At School
Pretending to understand instructions to avoid standing out
Mimicking classmates’ behaviour or speech patterns
Rehearsing answers silently before speaking
Hiding discomfort with uniforms or classroom noise
In Social Settings
Laughing at jokes that don’t make sense
Preparing conversation topics in advance
Avoiding personal interests unless directly asked
Mirroring others’ energy levels or facial expressions
Using alcohol to feel more relaxed in crowds
These behaviours aren’t exclusive to any gender, although research suggests autistic women and girls may be especially adept at masking due to social expectations.
The Impact
Masking can delay diagnosis, prevent access to support, and lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. It can also create a sense of identity loss — especially for those who’ve masked unconsciously for years.
“When I am masking, the vast majority of my brain function is going to that masking. It is taking almost all of my mental energy to just stay in absolute control.”
Introducing ‘Unmasked’ (coming soon!)
That’s why we created Unmasked: A Reflective Workbook. It’s not a diagnostic tool, it’s a space to explore who you are beneath the adaptations. Whether you’ve been diagnosed, are self-identifying, or are simply curious, this workbook offers prompts, insights, and validation for anyone who’s ever wondered quietly.
You don’t need to be fixed. You just need space to be real.
Sign up to be notified when ‘Unmasked’ is released.
Sources: National Autistic Society – Masking Autistic People and Masking – NAS Simply Psychology – Examples of Autism Masking
Paracetamol doesn’t cause autism, but misinformation is certainly giving me a headache.
You may have heard talk in the press this week claiming that Tylenol (Paracetamol for us Brits) use during pregnancy causes a ‘very increased risk of autism’. In one of his most eyebrow raising moment to date, President Donald Trump made the claim during a White House press event on Monday. He even went as far as to advise pregnant women to ‘tough it out’ and avoid Paracetamol altogether.
The Claim: Bold, Baseless, and Baffling
Trump’s assertion that the FDA would soon issue guidance warning against Tylenol use during pregnancy was news to everyone, including the FDA (The Food and Drug Administration or the US equivalent of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency that we have in the UK). No such guidance exists, and no credible medical body, either in the US or the UK has endorsed this claim. Paracetamol has long been considered one of the safest pain relievers for pregnant individuals when used as directed. So where is this coming from? A few cherry-picked studies, a dash of pseudoscience, and a whole lot of political bravado.
What the Science Actually Says
Yes, there have been studies looking into possible links between paracetamol and neurodevelopmental outcomes. But they’re far from conclusive. Most experts agree there’s no proven cause-and-effect relationship between paracetamol and autism. These studies raise questions, not alarms, and they certainly don’t justify sweeping public health claims.
Dr. Allison Bryant, a high-risk obstetrician at Massachusetts General Hospital, summed it up: ‘None (of the studies) clearly show any cause and effect.’ Translation: Trump’s claim is about as medically sound as using essential oils to treat a broken leg.
UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting didn’t mince words in response to Trump’s remarks either. Speaking to ITV, he urged the public to ‘not pay any attention whatsoever’ to the claim, stating clearly: “There is no evidence to link the use of paracetamol by pregnant women to autism in their children—none.” He cited a major Swedish study involving 2.4 million children that found no link between the drug and the condition. His advice? Don’t even take his word for it—listen to British doctors, scientists, and the NHS.
The Real Danger: Misinformation with a Megaphone
The most alarming part of this saga isn’t the claim itself, it’s the platform it was given. When a sitting president makes sweeping medical pronouncements without evidence, people listen. And when those pronouncements contradict decades of research, the consequences can be serious.
Untreated pain and fever during pregnancy can harm both mother and baby. Discouraging safe treatment options based on flimsy science is irresponsible and dangerous.
Conclusion: Facts Matter More Than Soundbites
Autism is a complex condition with roots in genetics and early brain development. It cannot be boiled down to a single cause, and certainly not to a common over-the-counter painkiller. Oversimplifying the science does a disservice to autistic individuals and their families, and spreads confusion where clarity is needed most.
What happens at an autism assessment?
So, you’ve finally taken the leap (see what we did there?) and booked your autism assessment. You’re nervous, you’re curious, you’re almost a bit excited, it’s been a long road to this point, and you’re hoping that soon you will have answers to life long questions. But, what actually happens at an autism assessment?
At Leap, we use two assessment tools to assess and diagnose autism. We use the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, second edition) and the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview - revised).
The ADOS-2 is a shorter assessment, it uses tasks and conversations to assess for autism, and is usually completed in person at our clinic space in Burscough. When you come for an ADOS-2, you will meet with Jess and one of the Leap clinicians who will guide you through the process. Jess will do most of the talking, where as the other clinician will be taking notes. This assessment usually lasts one hour.
The ADI-R assessment is a little longer and can be completed online via Microsoft Teams, over the telephone, or in person if you wish. It focuses on your developmental history, how you developed socially as a child, your interests and routines, and your sensory interests and challenges.
This may all sound like a lot, and in a way, it is - the assessments are designed to be thorough, we want any diagnoses to be accurate and clinically sound, but you will always be in safe hands. At Leap, we want the assessment process to be a positive and affirming one, and so we are led by our patients in terms of pace and in terms of what we talk about. You will never be under pressure to talk about anything you do not want to, and you can take breaks if you need to. We can also split the ADI-R assessment over two sessions.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Why pursue an autism diagnosis?
It all begins with an idea.
Have you ever wondered if an autism assessment might help you understand yourself better?
For many people, receiving an autism diagnosis, whether in childhood or adulthood, can feel like a turning point. Like a lens through which life suddenly makes more sense. For many people, diagnosis isn’t about labels, it’s about clarity, validation, and access to support.
Clarity: Understanding Yourself Better
One of the most immediate benefits of an autism diagnosis is clarity. For years, many autistic individuals navigate the world feeling ‘different’ without knowing why. Social interactions might feel confusing, sensory experiences overwhelming, and routines essential, but without a framework to explain these patterns, it’s easy to internalise frustration and feel as though there must be something ‘wrong’.
A diagnosis offers a roadmap. It helps explain why certain environments feel draining, why small talk can be exhausting, or why intense interests bring so much joy. This clarity isn’t just intellectual, it’s emotional clarity also. It allows people to reframe past experiences with compassion and insight, rather than confusion or shame.
Validation: You’re Not Alone
An autism diagnosis can be deeply validating. It confirms that the challenges you’ve faced aren’t due to personal failings, they’re part of a neurodivergent way of experiencing the world. That shift in perspective can be liberating to someone who has spent years feeling ‘less than’.
Validation also comes from community. Once diagnosed, many people find connection with others who share similar experiences. Online forums, local groups, and advocacy networks offer spaces where autistic voices are heard, respected, and celebrated. Knowing you’re not alone, and that your experiences are real and shared, can be a powerful antidote to isolation.
Access to Support: Tools for Thriving
With a diagnosis comes access to support systems that might otherwise be out of reach. This can include accommodations at school or work, therapeutic services, sensory-friendly environments, and tailored strategies for communication and daily living.
Importantly, support isn’t about ‘fixing’ autism, it’s more about empowering autistic individuals to thrive in a world that often isn’t designed with neurodiversity in mind. Whether it’s noise-cancelling headphones, flexible work arrangements, or social skills coaching, these tools can make a meaningful difference in quality of life.
At Leap, we firmly feel that a diagnosis is not the end, it’s just the beginning. It’s a chance to understand yourself more deeply, connect with others authentically, and access the resources you deserve. Most of all, it’s a reminder that being autistic isn’t something to hide, it’s something to embrace, it’s who you are and always have been - perfect just as you are.
Whether you’re exploring lifelong patterns or seeking answers for the first time, Leap offers a calm, professional space to begin that journey.